On this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis is joined by Brad Crone, a seasoned political consultant and President of Campaign Connections, to delve into the complexities of the upcoming 2024 elections. Crone offers his insights on the presidential race, North Carolina’s gubernatorial contest, and the impact of down-ballot races, shedding light on what’s shaping up to be one of the most...
In this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis speaks with Heather Frazee, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Piedmont Triad Chapter, about the Red Cross’s ongoing disaster relief work in North Carolina. Frazee sheds light on the organization’s efforts in helping those affected by the recent floods in the western part of the state, the role of volunteers, and the importance of...
In a timely conversation on Carolina Newsmakers, Karen Brinson Bell, Executive Director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, spoke with Don Curtis about the upcoming 2024 elections. Bell provided insights into the election process, discussed changes to voting procedures, and emphasized the importance of voter participation. The State of the 2024 Election Process Karen Brinson Bell has...
In this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, host Don Curtis talks with Dr. Michael Walden, Professor Emeritus of Economics at North Carolina State University, about the current economic landscape of the state and the nation, focusing on the recent Federal Reserve actions and their broader implications. Dr. Walden, a frequent guest on the program, offers insights into the Federal Reserve’s decision to...
On this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, host Don Curtis sits down with Eric Davis, chair of the North Carolina State Board of Education, to explore critical issues in the state’s public education system. From governance to teacher pay and the aftermath of COVID-19, Davis addresses the opportunities and challenges North Carolina schools face as they strive to provide high-quality education to...
On a recent episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis sat down with Gregory Griggs, Executive Vice President and CEO of the North Carolina Academy of Family Physicians, to discuss the critical role family physicians play in North Carolina’s healthcare system, the challenges they face, and how the state is adapting to its growing healthcare needs. The Backbone of Healthcare: Family Physicians...
On a recent episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Dale Folwell, the 28th North Carolina State Treasurer, discussed the current state of various state programs, his thoughts on the future, and his upcoming retirement. With a career spanning multiple terms, Folwell’s tenure has been marked by a dedication to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and public service. Transition Plan as Folwell Retires As...
In a recent episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis interviewed Steve Lawler, the president and CEO of the North Carolina Health Care Association (NCHA). With over three decades in healthcare and eight years leading the NCHA, Lawler provided deep insights into the current state of healthcare in North Carolina, the challenges facing rural hospitals, and the ongoing efforts to address workforce...
In a recent episode of Carolina Newsmakers, host Don Curtis sat down with Joey Hopkins, the newly appointed Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The conversation delved into the complexities of managing transportation in a rapidly growing state like North Carolina, covering topics from funding challenges to innovative transportation solutions. The Scale of North...
In a recent episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis sat down with Patrick Woody, the president of the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center (NC Rural Center), to discuss the ongoing efforts and challenges of developing rural areas in North Carolina. Woody provided valuable insights into the current state of rural counties, the impact of federal and state funding, and the...